and the only difference is i grew up in an environment that was a little bit more forgiving so, when i made a mistake, the consequences were not as severe. i had people who encouraged me, not just my mom and grandparents but wonderful teachers and community leaders. they never gave up on me. and so i didn't give up on myself. >> reporter: after five years in office, the plight of black and latino men and boys has the president's attention. his new initiative hopes to build on the successes of programs like kipp high school in the bronx. this year, 100% of the seniors have applied to college. >> i think that young men of color face a stacked deck. >> reporter: ramon de jesus is a kipp counselor. a kid from the neighborhood, he was the first in his family to graduate from high school and then college. mr. obama, he said, cuts through. >> his appearance, that's all the kids need. he doesn't have to say a word. "i am the president of the united states. don't i kind of look like you?" >> reporter: adrian portela is one of dejesus' mentees, four colleges have already accepted him and he's